US-China Trade Talks to Proceed After Trump-Xi Phone Call
In a significant development, US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have agreed to move forward with trade talks after a lengthy phone call. The conversation, primarily focused on trade, has been described as very good
and positive
by Trump. Both leaders have extended invitations to each other to visit their respective countries.
Background
Amid ongoing economic and national security friction over trade between the US and China, the leaders' conversation is a notable attempt to deescalate tensions. The call came weeks after worsening relations between the two nations, with Trump accusing Beijing of breaching last month's trade agreement. However, China has rejected these claims, asserting that it has been responsibly and faithfully implementing the consensus
.
Key Developments
The 90-minute conversation was first reported by the Chinese state media and later confirmed by Trump on Truth Social. I just concluded a very good phone call with President Xi, of China, discussing some of the intricacies of our recently made, and agreed-to, Trade Deal,
Trump said. Trump also announced that Xi had invited him and First Lady Melania Trump to China, an invitation he had reciprocated.
Moreover, Trump also confirmed that China will resume shipments of rare earth minerals to the US, a development that came a month and a half after China halted exports of these critical resources.
Reactions and Implications
This breakthrough in conversation between the two leaders has been seen as a positive development by various quarters, but it also sheds light on the complexities of international trade negotiations. The discussions have been marked by accusations and counter-accusations, with both countries insisting on their commitment to fair trade practices.
The upcoming talks could have significant implications for global trade, particularly given the recent shift in the trade war from tariffs to a potentially more damaging control over global supply chains. The resumption of rare earth mineral shipments from China is especially significant, given their crucial role in manufacturing and defense sectors.
Conclusion
Despite the positive conversation, the specifics of what the Chinese are asking the White House to relinquish to secure a phone call with Xi remains unclear. The leaders of the US and China have agreed to further talks aimed at reaching a deal amid the ongoing trade war, which has seen a decline in US imports and increased economic uncertainty for businesses. As both nations continue to navigate these complex issues, the world watches with bated breath to see how future negotiations will unfold.